Tooth sensitivity can be distracting and even painful. When you have sensitive teeth in Burkburnett, TX, there could be a number of different treatment options available to help. What kind of treatment you need often depends on the source of sensitivity. Your dentist will examine your bite to determine the potential underlying dental condition. With the right treatment, you could even experience immediate relief from pain, discomfort, and sensitivity.
How to Treat Sensitive Teeth in Burkburnett, TX
Sensitive teeth are a fairly common problem that many patients face. For some, sensitivity comes from decay, disease, or damage. For others, the problem could be simply having a piece of food stuck between two teeth. If you notice sensitivity, the first thing you should do is wash your mouth with warm water. Then, gently brush and floss the affected area. If the sensitivity persists for more than a day or two, it could be a sign of a bigger issue. And you may need more extensive treatment to help.
Dental Filling
If the sensitivity is caused by decay, you may be able to restore your tooth with a simple dental filling. Fillings are often recommended for smaller cavities, so it’s important to catch the problem early on. If you allow decay to continue to deepen or spread, then you could end up with a different issue.
Dental Crown
For widespread decay or excessive damage, your dentist may recommend a dental crown to treat sensitivity. Dental crowns can help cover and protect the majority of your teeth. With restorative treatment, you can often prevent further damage and sensitivity from occurring.
Root Canal
Our teeth are made up of multiple layers. At the innermost layer, the majority of our tooth’s nerves and blood vessels are connected to the root canal and pulp. If the pulp becomes infected, it can swell and press against the hard casing of the tooth. When this happens, it’s normal to feel sharp pain and excessive sensitivity. If you do have an infected pulp, your dentist may be able to extract it through a root canal treatment. For most patients, a root canal often provides immediate relief from pain and sensitivity.
Extraction
If you catch a dental problem early enough, you can often restore your teeth with minimally invasive procedures. However, some cases of extreme damage or decay may make restoration difficult. When this is true, the best course of action could be to extract the tooth. Extraction can help reduce sensitivity and prevent the damage from spreading in your mouth. To help keep your jaw healthy and your bite strong, your dentist may coordinate treatment to include extraction and implant placement in the same appointment.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is tooth sensitivity normal after a dental filling?
Yes, it’s normal to experience mild tooth sensitivity after a dental filling, especially to hot, cold, or sweet foods. This sensitivity typically subsides within a few days to a few weeks as the tooth adjusts. Persistent sensitivity beyond this period may indicate an issue, such as an improperly fitted filling or nerve irritation, and should be evaluated by your dentist.
Can sensitive teeth affect my ability to get dental implants?
Sensitive teeth do not disqualify you from getting dental implants, but the underlying causes, such as gum disease or enamel loss, need to be treated first. Proper oral health and adequate bone density are required for implant success. We will review your oral condition and develop a treatment plan if sensitivity issues need to be addressed before implant placement.
Can gum recession cause permanent tooth sensitivity?
Yes, gum recession can lead to permanent tooth sensitivity because it exposes the dentin, which lacks enamel protection. Treatments such as gum grafting, desensitizing agents, or dental bonding can reduce sensitivity and protect exposed roots. Proper oral hygiene prevents further recession and sensitivity.
Does tooth sensitivity always mean a cavity?
No, tooth sensitivity doesn’t always indicate a cavity. It can result from enamel erosion, gum recession, teeth grinding, or sinus pressure. However, cavities are a common cause of sensitivity, so it’s important to have any persistent discomfort evaluated by a dentist.
Can sensitive teeth be a sign of nerve damage?
Yes, persistent tooth sensitivity may indicate nerve damage, especially if it’s accompanied by sharp or throbbing pain. Nerve damage can result from deep cavities, trauma, or infection and may require treatments such as a root canal. Early diagnosis is important to prevent further complications.
Can sinus problems cause tooth sensitivity?
Yes, sinus infections or pressure can cause tooth sensitivity, particularly in the upper molars, due to their proximity to the sinus cavities. The pressure from inflamed sinuses can create the sensation of tooth pain or sensitivity. Treating the sinus issue usually resolves the dental discomfort.
At Burkburnett Family Dentistry, we have a wide range of treatment options available that could help treat sensitive teeth. Give us a call at 940-340-4588 to schedule your consultation and see what treatment may be right for your bite.